Camp Chowenwaw Park

A former Girl Scout camp, this picturesque park contains upland mixed forest and wetland communities, including lush bottomland and riparian hardwoods. Take the 750-foot “Jungle Trail” boardwalk to a fishing pier/observation deck on Black Creek for Bald Eagle, Anhinga, Wood Stork, Green Heron and River Otter. Nearly 1.5 miles of hiking/biking trails wind through the campgrounds (some with unique, elevated treehouses–call for reservations) and shaded woods where you may encounter Orange-crowned Warbler and Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in winter and Eastern Wood-pewee, Yellow-throated Vireo, Veery, Yellow Warbler and Summer Tanager in spring/fall. Paddle your canoe or kayak (bring your own, carry in) on Black Creek, Peters Creek or the St. Johns River and look for Yellow-crowned Night Heron, Osprey and Barred Owl. This is an ideal spot for families and beginners. Weekends tend to be busy with campers; on weekdays, it’s just you and the wildlife. Naturalist programs are offered throughout the year, call for details.